Organised by Jewish Family Service of San DiegoThe Safe Parking Program provides a welcoming environment, meaningful resources, and dignified support for individuals and families living out of their vehicles as they transition back into stable housing.
With more than 8,500 homeless individuals, our severe affordable housing shortage is only increasing this epidemic. 50% of San Diegans can't find housing they can afford, and without a strong financial footing, many low-income families are just one lost paycheck or financial crisis away from homelessness. The waitlists for Section 8 housing are long, and many people have no choice but to live in their cars. Without a safe, reliable place to sleep at night, those living in their cars are at risk to receive costly citations, resulting in increased stress and further perpetuating the cycle of homelessness.
Every night, JFS operates the Safe Parking Program at four secure lots across San Diego County. Program participants receive a comprehensive suite of services, including case management, housing navigation, targeted financial assistance, asset-building coaching, hot meals, access to bathrooms and handwashing stations, and more to help individuals and families get back on their feet. The program's wraparound, client-centered approach offers an individualized service plan to assist in securing stable housing.
- Approximately 61% of Safe Parking Program participants are first-time homeless.
- The majority have been homeless for less than a year, and many participants are still working full-time jobs.
- Between it's launch in 2017 and July 2020, the Safe Parking Program has served 1,802 people.
Through three years of homelessness, Zockie fought to keep her family together after assuming guardianship of her nephew and niece when they were just two and eight years old. Unable to afford daycare for both of them, she cut back her hours as a preschool teacher to care for them full time. With her savings depleted and nowhere to go, she packed their belongings and moved into her car. By the time they entered the Safe Parking Program, she had almost given up hope of ever having a home again. With a lot of hard work and the support of a Safe Parking Housing Specialist, Zockie qualified for an apartment. Read more about Zockie's story here .
Your support provides the vital tools, resources, and connections that Safe Parking Program participants need to rebuild their lives with dignity. Community is the home we build together.
Charities pay a small fee for our service. Learn more about fees